Unexplained Liver Symptoms? What You Need to Know About Hepatitis C in the UK

Could Liver Symptoms Point to Hepatitis C?

If you're experiencing ongoing liver discomfort, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or recurring digestive issues, you may be wondering: Is something wrong with my liver? In the UK, Hepatitis C is a leading cause of liver problems — and early detection gives the best chance for a positive outcome. At Mayfield Clinic, our at-home Hepatitis C Antigen Early Detection Blood Test Kit offers convenient, private answers in just 1 day.

What are Typical Liver Symptoms of Hepatitis C?

• Yellowish skin or eyes (jaundice): A sign your liver isn’t processing bilirubin properly.
• Dark urine and pale stools: Due to changes in bile production.
• Right-sided abdominal pain: The liver’s location under your right rib cage can cause local discomfort.
• Unexplained fatigue: The liver helps filter toxins — if it’s struggling, you may feel drained.
• Swelling in legs/abdomen: A rare but serious symptom of advanced liver disease.

According to NHS guidelines, about 40% of people with chronic Hepatitis C eventually develop liver damage if left untreated.

What Causes Hepatitis C? How is it Spread?

Hepatitis C is caused by a blood-borne virus that infects liver cells. Common routes of transmission include:

• Sharing of needles or injection equipment
• Blood transfusions before 1991 in the UK
• Medical or dental procedures without proper sterilisation (rare in the UK today)
• From mother to baby during birth
• Sharing razors, toothbrushes, or personal hygiene items

How Can I Protect Myself and My Family?

• Be cautious with personal hygiene items
• Ask for sterile equipment for tattoos or piercings
• Request Hepatitis C screening if you are in a risk group or have unexplained symptoms
• Encourage partners to get tested — it’s private and easy from home

Why Early Detection Matters

Hepatitis C is now considered curable with modern treatments, especially if caught early. You don’t have to wait for severe symptoms to take control of your health.

Call to Action: Suspect liver problems? Order your At-Home Hepatitis C Test Kit or book an in-person blood test today.

Learn More

Visit the NHS Hepatitis C page for a full list of symptoms and UK-specific risk factors, or contact the Mayfield Clinic for confidential advice.